To put it in simple words, Vespa LX 125 offers the combination of Italian iconic style from seventies combined with great performance that is demanded by today’s riders. The scooter has its own set of followers and lovers. It is one of the world’s best selling scooters. The vehicle was released in the Indian market during mid 2012, at the time when Vespa reentered India.
Vespa LX 125 has everything necessary to complete with Honda’s Activa. But perhaps Vespa’s price tag is keeping people away.
Style
Vespa logo, Vespa mirrors, premium chrome elements, and the signature grill make this scooter look better than all other scooters on Indian roads. Chrome lining in the front looks impressive. Vespa has used rubber ribs instead of foot mats, and this makes the scooter look even better.
Seat is nice, wide, and can offer comfort to pillion rider as well. Scooter’s under seat storage is good enough to keep half face helmet. Plus, you can keep small bags, books or gloves in small storage compartment below the steering. Instrument cluster is simple, and consists of digital clock, analogue fuel gauge, and analogue speedometer.
Vespa is the one and only brand from around the world that uses steel monocoque chassis. This makes the vehicle extremely durable. It is available in yellow, silver, blue, orange and red color options.
Engine
In order to offer better mileage, Vespa LX 125’s engine has three valves. Its CO2 emissions are also less compared to other scooters as per reports. In just 10.7 seconds, the engine can move from 0 to 60 KMPH. The scooter offers mileage of around 45 to 55 KMPL, and its fuel tank capacity is eight liters.
Scooters sold in India are fitted with engines made in Baramati (Indian city).
The engine is fitted with continuous variable transmission gearbox. It can reach top speed of 94 KMPH according to user reviews, and you may find it to be very agile while driving.
Braking and suspension system
LX 125 is fitted with drum brake in the front and rear. It easily manages to control the vehicle while driving within city limits. But while traveling on highways, some scooter lovers may miss disc brake in the front.
Dual effect shock absorber with coil spring manages the rear suspension, while trailing arm type, single-sided shock absorber manages the front suspension. Most of the user reviews suggest that the vehicle offers comfortable, smooth and peppy ride with this suspension system even while on rough Indian roads.
Comparison with other scooters
Compared to Yamaha Ray Z, and Honda Dio’s overall looks, Vespa’s iconic style is way too ahead in the race. LX125 is smooth and agile amongst all three scooters.
Yamaha Ray Z is the winner when it comes to comfort and support for pillion rider.
Vespa’s engine is the most powerful among all, and easily helps rider to overtake others. Honda’s combi braking system is better than Yamaha and Vespa’s brakes.
Price-wise, Honda Dio and Yamaha Ray Z come with price tag of around Rs 50,000 plus taxes, while Vespa LX 125 is available for around Rs 67,000 plus taxes. Price-wise, LX 125 is ahead of others. But remember, Vespa’s scooters are not just mode of personal transport, these scooters are like style statement.
Vespa may not be the market leader like Honda Activa at this time. But, the Italian design has managed to send shock waves across for sure. These days, Indian scooter lovers need mode of personal transport that offers great style, mileage and comfort as well. Vespa LX 125 manages to fulfill all three requirements. Plus, it manages to attract a lot of attention in parking lot as well as while on road.